From Jeweler to Sculptor: A Candid Conversation with Kenneth Johnson

Join us for a captivating conversation with Kenneth Johnson, a citizen of the Muscogee Nation and a renowned jeweler, sculptor, and designer. Kenneth shares his compelling journey from growing up in Oklahoma at Indian boarding schools, discovering his passion for art, to making a successful living out of it for over three decades. Listen in as he opens up about the struggles and triumphs of being a Native American artist, and how his heritage has profoundly influenced his work. This episode takes a fascinating look at Kenneth's evolution as an artist, his shift from jewelry to sculpture and installation art, and the importance of working smart.

Our chat with Kenneth is not only about his life and art but also about his exploration of his Muscogee and Seminole heritage. He shares insightful anecdotes about how his mother taught him Seminole patchwork and his process of creating his art - from the urgent moments to the slow process of letting it ferment and come to life. Kenneth offers a unique perspective on how he interprets Muscogee and Seminole artwork through metal and stone, instead of traditional patchwork, a conversation that's sure to intrigue any art enthusiast.

In the final segment, Kenneth discusses the challenges he faces when working with mokume-gane, a layered patterned metal, and his experience creating a 29-foot turtle installation. He recounts the journey of carving a 7,000-pound Muscogee marble sculpture with the assistance of other sculptors, mentors, and the chief of the Muscogee Nation. This episode is an inspiring story of how Kenneth Johnson, with support from his family and friends, continues to create compelling art, encouraging us all to live each day to the fullest.